Affordable Tennessee Bobtail Insurance for Truckers
Tennessee Bobtail Insurance
Written by: Caleb Jackson Vice President of Barbee Jackson Insurance Trucking Division. Truckers use Bobtail and Non-trucking liability interchangeably, but there is a difference. Knowing the difference can save you thousands if a claim occurs.
Bobtail / Non-Trucking Insurance by Barbee Jackson Insurance
More goods are moved through Tennessee than most states because of the increasing demand for goods and the states proximity to the surrounding states. A lot of the demand is coming from drivers that own their own rig that are leasing on to larger operations.
At Barbee Jackson Insurance we understand trucking insurance and the different types of policies designed for different types of trucking operations. Call today to get your free quote (850) 389-2001 (Spanish speaking agents are available)
Knowing the difference between Bobtail and Non-Trucking Liability (NTL)
The most common phrase used by truckers leasing on is Bobtail, but most are looking for Non-trucking Liability (NTL).
Bobtail - Bobtail is when the rig is off trailer, while you are outside of dispatch. For example: Headed to pick up a load on your own and not under dispatch.
Non-Trucking - Much broader coverage than bobtail. It applies whether or not a trailer is attached, any time you're outside of dispatch and using the truck for personal reasons — like going to the grocery store. When you get a policy, you'll most likely be getting a Non-Trucking Liability policy rather than bobtail specifically.
💡Caleb’s Pro Tip - Our agents will ask you for a copy of your lease agreement with the operation that you are leasing on to with your rig. This is to make sure that our insurance fits that company's agreement prior to purchasing the insurance.
The Moving King TX⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐”We have worked with this company for several years and the team is fantastic. Caleb and Ciarra have wonderful to work with - great communication and very helpful.”
How much does the Insurance Cost?
Great news -This is the most affordable policy in trucking insurance. The policy price will be determined by chosen coverage levels such as physical damage. Medical payments and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
A basic Non-trucking policy with $1 million in liability will run you under $1,000 per year and these policies can be put on a monthly payment plan.
Non-Trucking Liability Coverage Options
Physical Damage - This coverage is written at Stated Value or Agreed Value. It provides coverage for the rig itself against accidents, theft and weather related claims
Medical Payments - Additional medical payments in the event of an accident no matter who is at-fault
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Bodily Injury (UMBI) - For drivers wanting added protection for medical and pain and suffering may want to UMBI. This provides coverage in the event you are in a not at-fault accident with the other driver not having insurance or is underinsured.
Tennessee Trucking Insurance Requirements
All commercial trucks that have a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,000 lbs and more are governed by the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT), Motor carrier Division.The department closely follows the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) insurance requirements. Tennessee will require $750,000 in liability insurance for both intrastate and interstate.
Most operations that you lease on to will require a $1 million policy per the lease agreement.
“This is a great company to work with. Tyler Henderson is an excellent agent, he is very helpful and always available to answer questions and is extremely helpful. He seems genuinely interested in seeing my business is successful.” ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Clint Draper
Frequently Asked Questions
If I’m on dispatch pulling a trailer then I’m covered under their policy?
Yes, if you have a lease agreement and under dispatch you are covered by the company's master insurance policy. Your policy is when you are not under dispatch.
Can I convert my Non-trucking liability to a regular trucking policy if I want my own authority?
Yes, in many cases we can change the policy from a non-trucking to standard trucking policy.
What is the most common claim?
The most common claim is rear-end accidents.
Is there a discount for dashcams?
Not under non-trucking, but the operation you lease onto may require a dashcam to protect them from claims that you were not at-fault.